Melbourne Victory shareholder Juan Mata has elected to conclude his playing commitments at the Club.
After careful consideration, the 38-year-old, whose on-pitch contribution represented one of the most impressive individual seasons in A-Leagues history, will now concentrate his expertise with Victory on his position in the Club’s ownership group, while he considers the next steps in his career from his home in Europe.
This will be paired with a position as Chair of Victory’s newly established football committee.
Mata joined the Club in September 2025 and, as a lynchpin of the A-League Men’s team, the former Chelsea and Manchester United playmaker duly added to his glittering resume. He was named the best footballer in Australia’s top-flight domestic competition and also took home the 2026 Victory Medal, off the back of spellbinding performances that helped qualify Victory for a 15th Finals Series, and saw Mata recognised in the PFA’s Team of the Season.
Melbourne Victory Director of Football, John Didulica, commented:
“Juan’s 2025/26 season will live long in the memory of Victory fans and should be cherished by all supporters of the world’s game here in Australia. The way he performed on the pitch and the way he conducted himself around the Club were both exemplary.
“We thank him for everything he delivered and were delighted that, after he chose to join Melbourne Victory, he was able to excel within the strong culture and high-performance environment established here over several years.
“Everyone at the Club is excited that he is part of our ownership group and, in the future, looks forward to his football intelligence leading our football committee.”
Melbourne Victory owner, Mata, added:
“I loved every minute and so greatly enjoyed everything that we achieved last season, falling back in love with football at such a special place, in an amazing city that it was a privilege to call home.
“Thanks to my teammates, the staff and the Board for welcoming me so warmly, supporting me so generously, and allowing me to give my best for this wonderful Club and the amazing members and fans whose support I still feel every day.
“Now I am excited about our next chapters, believing together in the future of Australian football and inspiring the next generation of Melbourne Victory players and supporters.”
